High Tibial Osteotomy

If you need a High Tibial Osteotomy, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A High Tibial Osteotomy?

A high tibial osteotomy (HTO) is a surgical procedure performed to treat certain knee conditions, such as osteoarthritis or malalignment, by altering the alignment and distribution of weight-bearing forces in the knee joint. It involves cutting and reshaping the upper portion of the tibia (shin bone) to change the angle at which the leg bones meet.

The procedure is typically performed in the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia to ensure comfort and pain control during the surgery.
2. Incision: A small incision is made on the side of the knee to access the upper portion of the tibia.
3. Bone Cutting: The surgeon carefully cuts and reshapes the upper portion of the tibia to change the alignment of the knee joint. The precise location and angle of the cut depend on the specific requirements of the individual patient.
4. Fixation: Once the desired correction is achieved, the bone is held in place with specialized surgical implants, such as metal plates, screws, or staples. The implants provide stability during the healing process.
5. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Following the surgery, a period of rehabilitation is typically recommended to aid in recovery and maximize the benefits of the osteotomy. The rehabilitation program may include physical therapy exercises to restore strength, range of motion, and function of the knee joint. Weight-bearing and activity restrictions may be advised to protect the healing bone.

The aim of a high tibial osteotomy is to redistribute the weight-bearing forces within the knee joint, relieving pain and improving function for individuals with specific knee conditions, such as isolated medial compartment osteoarthritis or certain types of malalignment. It is often considered in younger, active patients who are not suitable candidates for total knee replacement surgery.

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with high tibial osteotomy, including infection, bleeding, blood clots, delayed bone healing, nerve or blood vessel injury, and the need for further surgeries. It is important to have a thorough evaluation and consultation with an orthopedic surgeon to determine if a high tibial osteotomy is the appropriate treatment option for your specific knee condition. The surgeon will consider factors such as your age, overall health, knee alignment, degree of cartilage damage, and individual goals to provide personalized treatment recommendations.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.